Newbie's Skill

Sixty-One

"So what's the game plan exactly?" I asked the crew. Well...specifically their captain. What a dumb idea.

"Get the Flame Flame Fruit. That's it," Luffy grinned. I face-palmed.

"Did you really think he has any brain in that stupid head of his to form a plan of action?" Nami sighed.

"I'm just surprised none of us are dead because of him, yet," Usopp shuddered. I just laughed.

"Yikes," I said. "Well, shall we come up with something so we're not lost dogs when we get there?"

"Has anyone ever actually been to Dressrosa before?" Chopper wondered. Everyone just looked at each other like lost puppies. I sighed.

"It's an island that feels like a tourist attraction," I said bluntly. "There's a huge arena, and that's probably where we'll find Big Brother's devil fruit. The island is filled with pretty boys and high class nobles. Don't let the pretty faces throw you off guard. They're dangerous foes if anyone crosses them."

"That doesn't sound too friendly..." Nami worried.

"Do not fear, Nami-swan! I will protect you!" Sanji hollered.

"I'm even more worried," Nami grumbled.

"The arena is run by Doflamingo, so we have to be extremely cautious. If we're caught, we'll be killed on the spot. Doflamingo shows no mercy, and I'm not willing to put his tolerance to the test. We keep our heads low and stay out of trouble while we participate in this tournament. Everyone got it?" I thoroghly explained.

"Honestly, why are we so worried about a pirate that is pink and looks like a flamingo?" Zoro yawned.

"Zoro, have you ever even seen Doflamingo's power?" Usopp muttered.

"Does it matter if I did or not?"

"Doflamingo was one of the seven warlords of the sea," Robin cut in. "He's not just some amateur pirate. He's a powerful enemy, and I agree with Ashlo. We should steer clear of him if we can help it."

"At least someone has a little common sense," I huffed.

"Sorry. I think Luffy has Gum Gum Rocketed into our heads one too many times," Usopp apologized. I simply chuckled.

"What an odd crew," I murmured to myself. "Well, anyways. For now let's get some sleep. We'll have a long day tomorrow. We need to get everything set up. We're still a while from shore, so I'll take first watch tonight. I need to clear my head. You guys go ahead without me."

"Are you sure?" Luffy asked sternly. I smiled sadly, nodding my head. "If you say so. Good night, Ashlo."

"Good night, Luffy," I replied softly. The others told me good night before the girls went to where the captain's cabin is supposed to be while the boys went below deck. I smiled up at the full moon and the balls of fire in the night sky. "I miss you, Ace," I whispered to myself. I hiccuped before I even realized tears were pouring down my face. "Pops," I whimpered. "I'm not ready. I'm not strong enough. Why did you both have to go and leave me so soon?"